Information Bulletin on Funerals and COVID-19

With the recent concerns of the COVID-19 virus, we want to remind everyone that public health and sanitation is one of the basic foundations of funeral service and, as such, we must be proactive anytime there is even a hint of danger to the public welfare.

As you are aware, we all find ourselves in extraordinary circumstances, coming together to ensure the health and safety our families, neighbors, and communities as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to escalate.

In response to public health concerns, Governor Bill Lee has issued several executive orders to contain the spread of COVID-19, including, on Tuesday, April 28, 2020, issuing Executive Order No. 30, which allows many Tennesseans to return to work safely while encouraging adherence to health and business operation guidelines. The Order prohibits social gatherings of ten (10) or more people, but expressly states that religious services, rites, funerals and related gatherings are not “social” and thus are not categorically prohibited. This includes memorial events and funeral services, whether held at a funeral establishment, church, cemetery, or other facility.

During this uncertain time we want to continue offering the opportunity to celebrate life. Our mission is to offer families comfort in their time of loss, and provide a platform to honor and celebrate the life of their loved one. This will continue, but we will be vigilant during this unique time.

When our staff serves your family we will be emphasizing these guidelines:

We will emphasize to our families how to prevent the spread of COVID-19, such as by staying home if you are sick, washing your hands, and covering coughs and sneezes.

We will continue to practice the same safe hygiene and sanitary procedures in our funeral home that we always have practiced.

We will also present different ways to express comfort and love and will try and forego the traditional shaking of hands and hugging.

Despite the concerns associated with COVID-19, we have alternatives we can share with our families that will allow them to celebrate the life of their loved one in ways that promote the safety of all involved.

Established in 1930, Brown Funeral Home has been providing exemplary service to the families of Newport, Cocke County, and surrounding areas for decades.

At Brown Funeral Home, we value our relationship with your family. For those who have turned to our establishment for generations, we sincerely thank you for placing your trust and confidence in us. For others facing the loss of a loved one, we hope you'll consider Brown Funeral Home during your time of need.

Our firm blends traditional values with modern practices, providing exceptional care to every family we serve. At Brown Funeral Home, we are committed to providing courteous, compassionate service with fairness and respect. Brown Funeral Home offers a variety of services to fit most any budget; from traditional funerals to cremation services, celebrations of life, and prearrangements.

The loss of a loved one is never easy. Meanwhile, our caring staff is honored to be here for you during the most difficult times. We pledge to provide knowledgeable assistance while planning the most appropriate, meaningful, and economical tribute to the memory of your loved one.

Browse this website for information about our staff and services, as well as other resources to help you in your time of need. Feel free to call on us any time, day or night, at 423-623-3041.